CCPS Sociology Course Descriptions

An analysis of factors that are significant in the development of people as social beings. Consideration is given to the social group and culture as factors in this process.

200 Level Courses

SOCI 201: Sociology of the Family. 3 hours.

The study of the family as a dynamic social institution. Students will examine family structures and socialization processes within multicultural and socio- historical contexts, including patterns of role behaviors, division of labor, decision-making and the life cycle.

SOCI 202: Global Social Problems. 3 hours.

This course examines major global social problems and applies the sociological perspectives in understanding the contemporary global social problems such as race and ethnic conflict, war, public health, poverty, population and environmental issues.

SOCI 246: Introduction to Social Work. 3 hours.

A pre-professional survey of the field of social work including philosophy, major techniques, types, private and public agencies, professional opportunities.

SOCI 290, 390, 490: Selected Topics. 1-3 hours.

Selected Topics are courses of an experimental nature that provide students a wide variety of study opportunities and experiences. Selected Topics offer both the department and the students the opportunity to explore areas of special interest in a structured classroom setting. Selected Topics courses (course numbers 290, 390, 490) will have variable titles and vary in credit from 1-3 semester hours. Selected Topic courses may not be taken as a Directed Study offering.

SOCI 291, 391, 491: Research. Variable hours.

Many academic departments offer special research or investigative projects beyond the regular catalog offering. Significant responsibility lies with the student to work independently to develop a proposal for study that must be approved by a faculty mentor and the appropriate department chair. The faculty member will provide counsel through the study and will evaluate the student’s performance. Sophomores, juniors and seniors are eligible. Students must register for research (291, 292, 391, 392, 491 or 492) to receive credit and are required to fill out a Permission to Register for Special Coursework form. It is recommended that students complete not more than 12 hours of research to apply toward the baccalaureate degree.

300 Level Courses

SOCI 312: Problems of Death and Dying. 3 hours.

This course provides a sociological overview of death and dying. Course topics will include the changing demographics, attitudes, and practices surrounding death as well as how professionals, groups, and institutions deal with dying, death, and bereavement.

SOCI 316: Minority Groups. 3 hours.

Examines the process of adjustment of various ethnic and cultural groups to life in the United States. Some consideration to world ethnic situations. Meets cultural diversity requirement.

SOCI 325: Political Sociology. 3 hours.

This course is an in-depth study of the social basis of power and politics. Political, economic, and cultural forces of conflict and change are examined.

SOCI 327: Social Gerontology. 3 hours.

An examination of the sociological, psychological, environmental, and economic aspects of the aging process both in regard to the individual, as well as the relationship with the larger society. The impact of a larger elderly population and the political relationship that pertains to the services and programs to provide for the needs of the elderly now, as well as in the future, also is considered.

SOCI 336: Development of Sociological Theory. 3 hours.

Prerequisite: SOCI 101.An analysis of the evolution of major sociological perspectives that seek to explain the nature of social order. Emphasis is placed on social processes of consensus, conflict and social change.

SOCI 341: Homosexuality and Civil Liberties. 3 hours.

Examination of the rise of the gay and lesbian movement and the challenges of achieving civil liberties and civil rights in dominantly heterosexual Western and non-Western societies.

SOCI 347: Medical Sociology. 3 hours.

This course is concerned with the social causes and consequences of health and illness. Major areas of investigation include the social facets of health and disease, the social behavior of healthcare personnel and people who utilize healthcare, and the social functions of health organizations and healthcare delivery systems. Will not satisfy biology major requirements.

SOCI 354: Native American Cultures. 3 hours.

Prerequisite: SOCI 101.Students will use the skills of cultural analysis to examine Native American cultures. The course will provide an in depth examination of the original inhabitants in the Americas. Meets cultural diversity requirement.

SOCI 360: Community Studies. 3 hours.

Study of how people arrange themselves socially within cities and surrounding sociocultural environments. Particular attention is given to the processes of urbanism, the urban experience, the community and the concept of place.

SOCI 362: Sociology of Religion. 3 hours.

This course will explore the character of religious practice and religious consciousness from a sociological perspective. Religion will be examined both as an experience that aids the individual in understanding his or her life and as a social institution.

SOCI 397, 497: Internship. Variable hours.

Interns must have at least 60 credit hours, completed appropriate coursework and have a minimum GPA of 2.5 prior to registering for academic credit. Also, approval must be obtained from the student's faculty sponsor and required forms must be completed by the deadline. Note: *Architecture, Music Therapy and Education majors do not register internships through Career Planning & Development. These students need to speak with his/her advisor regarding credit requirements and options. S/U Grading.

400 Level Courses

SOCI 400: Social Stratification. 3 hours.

Prerequisites: Three additional hours in sociology.This course examines the competing social scientific theories of social stratification and inequality. The policy implications and ideological orientations of these theories are evaluated.